Page 87 of Maybe Tomorrow

ChapterThirty-Six

Tuesday 15th May 1984

Day two of the trial

One of the first witnesses called by the prosecution was thirty-three-year-old Tania Dove. She walked to the witness stand on precariously high heels, every step echoing around the court room. She wore a knee-length skirt, tights, and a high-neck sweater. Her hair was freshly dyed, neatly combed and tied back. Her make-up was understated. She looked the epitome of respectability.

‘Miss Dove,’ Stefan Villiers began. ‘Can you tell the court what you do for a living?’

Tania licked her lips. She turned to the jury and spoke in a clear, concise voice. ‘I’m a sex worker.’

‘And whereabouts do you work?’

‘I work on Canal Street in Whitby.’

‘How do you know the defendant?’

‘I don’t know him personally. I only know him by sight.’

‘And how’s that?’

‘He sometimes comes to Canal Street to watch us work.’

‘By “us” I’m assuming you mean yourself and the other sex workers?’

‘That’s right.’ She turned to the judge and gave him a rueful smile.

‘Do you mind that he watches you?’

‘Not at first. In my job you see all kinds of quirks men have. You get used to them.’

‘Why do you think Anthony Winstanley watches you?’

‘Your Honour.’ Ronald Montgomery stood up. ‘I don’t think Miss Dove is qualified to give an insight into Anthony’s proclivities.’

‘Indeed. Please withdraw your question, Mr Villiers.’

Stefan nodded. ‘Miss Dove, have you ever had cause to be frightened of Mr Winstanley?’

‘Your Honour.’ Ronald was back on his feet. ‘That is a leading question.’

‘Where are you going with this line of questioning, Mr Villiers?’ Judge Temple asked.

‘My intention is to show Mr Winstanley’s state of mind, Your Honour, especially when he is aroused. I believe Miss Dove, having witnessed it on more than one occasion, can furnish us with first-hand understanding.’

‘Objection sustained. No amateur psychology please, Mr Villiers.’

Ronald retook his seat and Stefan stepped out from behind the desk.

‘On the night of Monday October tenth, did you see Anthony Winstanley?’

‘Yes.’

‘You’re sure of the date?’

‘Yes. It was the night of the storm. I remember it well.’

‘What was Mr Winstanley doing?’